Media release – New South Wales

Marrickville Council hosting six Census fill-in-the-form sessions

1 August 2011 | NSW/91

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) is partnering with Marrickville Council to hold six Census ‘fill-in-the-form’ sessions on the 10th and 11th of August to help ensure every person in the area is accurately counted in this year's Census.

NSW Census Director, Mark Harding is encouraging any Marrickville resident who needs some assistance, particularly those with English language difficulties, to attend a session.

"Everyone in Australia on Census night must be counted in the Census, including permanent residents, visitors and international students.

"Sydney is one of the most culturally diverse cities in the world and it's vital that the ABS capture a full picture of our diversity.

"The data collected in the Census allows all levels of government, multicultural services and religious institutions to plan and target important services for all cultures.

"Census form filling sessions are an important part of our multicultural strategy. Trained Census staff will be on hand to help all cultural groups and their families complete their Census form," Mr Harding says.

Mayor of Marrickville, Councillor Fiona Byrne, says Council is hosting these sessions to assist residents to complete their Census forms so that Council has an accurate snapshot of the Marrickville community.

"Marrickville is a culturally diverse area with a large ageing population. It’s important to have access to current and accurate statistics to meet the changing needs of our community,” Councillor Byrne says.

"Information collected in the Census is essential in helping Council identify and provide targeted services to all communities in Marrickville."

More information is available online at www.abs.gov.au/census or by calling the Census Inquiry Service on 1300 338 776